South Korean superstar Son Heung-Min has officially signed with LAFC, marking a historic move that not only redefines the MLS landscape but also sets a new standard for global soccer in the United States.
After a decade with Tottenham Hotspur, Son arrives in Los Angeles as the most expensive signing in MLS history, reportedly for a fee of $26.5 million. This blockbuster deal beats the previous record set by Atlanta United’s Emmanuel Latte Lath.
Who is Son Heung-Min? The new star of LAFC and MLS
Son leaves behind a legendary career at Spurs before joining LAFC and the MLS:
- ⚽ 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 matches
- 🥇 Premier League Golden Boot (2021-22)
- 💥 FIFA Puskás Award (2020)
- 🏆 Europa League title in 2025
- 🇪🇺 Champions League finalist in 2019
He became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot. Now, he steps into a leadership role at LAFC, a club with a history of attracting international stars like Gareth Bale, Carlos Vela, and Hugo Lloris—his former Tottenham teammate.
MLS’s biggest transfer ever
Son’s reported $26.5 million transfer fee shatters records in MLS, highlighting how the league is evolving to compete globally. His Designated Player contract runs through 2027, with options through 2029, signaling a long-term commitment from both sides.
Son’s signing is more than just a football decision—it’s a cultural moment. With over 51 international goals for South Korea and appearances in three FIFA World Cups, Son Heung-Min is a global icon. His fanbase spans continents, and his arrival in Los Angeles brings global attention to MLS and the local Korean-American community in Southern California.
LAFC currently sits in 6th place in the Western Conference. Son joins a team chasing its third MLS Cup Final in four years, after winning in 2022 and reaching the final again in 2023. With the departure of Olivier Giroud earlier this summer, Son is expected to take on an immediate leadership role.